Fourth attack on Indians in Kabul since July 2008

Describing it as a 'heinous terrorist attack,' External Affairs Minister S M Krishna said as per the preliminary information provided by the Afghan government officials, 'up to nine Indians... have lost their lives.'

"A few Indians have been injured, most of whom are reported to be out of danger. Arrangements are being made for their adequate and expeditious treatment, if necessary, by evacuating them to India," he said in a statement.

The Indians, who died in the incident included embassy staffers from consulates in Herat and Kandahar, a member of a medical mission and government officials, embassy sources said without giving their identity or breakup.

This is the fourth attack targeted at Indians in Kabul since July 2008 when 60 people, including four Indian embassy officials, were killed in a massive car bomb attack on the embassy building.

India and Afghanistan had pointed the finger at Pakistan for the July 2008 attack on the embassy, with reports suggesting that the Haqqani network had carried out the strike.

Strongly condemning the attack, Afghan President Hamid Karzai said it would not be allowed to hurt Afghan-Indian relations.

"Attacks on Indian citizens will not affect relations between India and Afghanistan," he said.